the charity dedicated to defeating pancreatic cancer by funding innovative research

Rowers complete round-Cornwall challenge

19 August 2016

A team of Cornish rowers has returned triumphant from an epic 200-mile trip around the coast of Cornwall, smashing their fundraising target for PCRF.

The 11-strong Row Cornwall team braved all weathers to complete the challenge over eight days, finishing with a well-deserved party at St Austell Rugby Club.

“It was very emotional seeing the crew arrive back into Fowey Harbour,” says Tressa Hancock, who organised the fundraising campaign along with husband, Will. “All the families were there to welcome them back, and it was really special seeing Maggie from PCRF there on the day as well.

The row was the culmination of eight months of fundraising by the Row Cornwall team, undertaken in memory of friends and family who have been affected by pancreatic cancer. A whole string of events including, bingo evenings, a charity auction, a Family Fun Day – and even a freezing cold New Year’s Day dip in the sea at Pentewan Beach, have brought donations flooding in to over £27,000, nearly triple their original target.

“We’ve had fantastic support from countless people who have lost relatives and friends to this disease,” added Tressa. “We’d also particularly like to thank all the businesses and local organisations who have supported us along the way, through hosting events and donating cash, food and prizes. I’ve begged and borrowed from so many people over the past year, that I think I’ll be keeping a low profile for a little while!”

Not for long, though! Not content with the Row Cornwall effort, Tressa says she’s already planning an all-female fundraising challenge next year.

“Obviously Row Cornwall wouldn’t have happened without the support of all the wives and partners,” says Tressa. “But next year we’re going to take the opportunity to organise our own event and continue the fundraising effort!”

PCRF’s founder, Maggie Blanks said: “It was a joy to be there to witness the team’s safe return and the celebrations, which definitely matched the enthusiasm shown throughout all their fundraising events! Thanks to everyone in the Row Cornwall team – and of course those who supported them in their community – it’s been a phenomenal campaign.”